Many people have food allergies that are life-threatening. A lot of other people often don't understand the seriousness of a food allergy and seem to not really care, or don't know how severe or scary an allergic reaction can be. Be prepared in advance to react quickly for your own sake in case others around you are not sure what to do.
Steps
Get tested. If you do find out you are allergic to a food, candy, ingredient, nut, product etc, you will probably want to go to the doctor for tests. (They will probably only take your blood.) The doctor will tell you the items to which you are allergic. He or she may also prescribe an Epi-Pen in case you have a bad reaction. Epi-Pens come in junior and regular. The doctor will probably show you how to use it; if he or she doesn't, read the directions. An Epi-Pen will be prescribed only if you are at risk for anaphylaxis.
Use an Epi-Pen as follows:
Take the Epi-Pen from the box and covering.
Pop off the grey stopper on the back.
Jab the black tip firmly into your left thigh and hold it there for about 10 "Mississippis." The Epi-Pen is a needle and it will stall or stop a reaction from occurring for about 10-15 minutes. You will either want to be taken to the nearest hospital or call 911 as soon as or before you inject it. The Epi-Pen can be inserted through any fabric, including denim, so there's no reason to remove your clothing.
You can also ask your doctor for a practice Epi-Pen that contains no needle or drug. You can use this Epi-Pen to practice on yourself or have your friends and family practice giving you an injection.
Read assiduously. If you have food allergies you will want to read ingredients on everything.
Ask restaurants what oils they use; if they use something you're allergic to, make sure it does not come into contact with your food. For example, peanut oil. The same may be said for any sauce or puree which may have ingredients not mentioned in the flavor description.
Stay away from foods that may contain allergens. Eat at another table or keep your distance.
Be ware of baked goods. Baked goods are sometimes tough - you will have to ask the person who made it. If they used a mix, just refuse, but thank them for the info.
If in doubt, leave. If you ever feel uncomfortable about anything in your surroundings, you can always leave. This is about your health, so don't be concerned about politeness.
Tips
If you use an Epi-Pen, don't throw it away. Have the EMT take it.
Meet other people with food allergies; they understand.
Never ever eat or drink something you're allergic to just because you want to participate or be "cool". You only get one life, and in that life, you can have lots of chances to be "cool."
Warnings
Keep your Epi-Pen with you at all times along with Benadryl for relief from hives or rashes.
